RAPID + TCT: The Next Level of Defense Manufacturing
Customization and Mission Tailoring: AM allows for the rapid prototyping and production of customized equipment and spare parts tailored to specific mission requirements. This capability enables military units to adapt and innovate on the battlefield, optimizing equipment performance, and increasing operational effectiveness. Additionally, it facilitates the production of mission-specific tools, jigs, and fixtures, enhancing efficiency and versatility in maintenance and repair operations. (Source: "Additive Manufacturing for Military Application: The State of the Art" by E. Sachs et al., in Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium Proceedings, 2007)
Securing Sensitive Information and Supply Chain: Additive manufacturing provides the defense sector with greater control over sensitive designs and intellectual property by limiting the need to outsource manufacturing to external suppliers. By producing parts in-house or through trusted partners, defense organizations can better protect classified information, safeguard supply chain integrity, and mitigate the risks of unauthorized access or tampering. Additionally, additive manufacturing enables the rapid implementation of design changes and upgrades, reducing the likelihood of unauthorized replication or reverse engineering. (Source: "Additive Manufacturing in Defense and Aerospace" by Defense Strategies Institute (DSI), 2019)
